The 2.5-Mile Zealand Trail Might Just Be The Most Enchanting Hike In New Hampshire
By Ken MacGray|Published August 30, 2023
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Ken MacGray
Author
Hey! I'm a freelance writer and guidebook author. I've authored "New Hampshire's 52 With A View - A Hiker's Guide", serve as editor of Appalachian Mountain Club's "Southern New Hampshire Trail Guide", and and am co-editor of the "White Mountain Guide", also for AMC. I'm currently beginning work on the 6th Edition of AMC's Southern New Hampshire Trail Guide, which will be published in 2025. I live in southern New Hampshire and can usually be found wandering throughout the state's mountains and forests.
Hiking mountains is great, but not everyone can do it – including me when I just don’t have the oomph. Sometimes, a simple easy walk through the forest does the trick. Fortunately, despite being part of the name, New Hampshire’s White Mountain National Forest isn’t just mountains. There are plenty of places to explore that are suitable for all abilities, and one of the most scenic hiking trails in NH, Zealand Trail, is a perfect choice for a pleasant walk in the woods.
Zealand Trail offers what is perhaps the easiest approach to the backcountry of the White Mountains.
Just beyond where Zealand Trail ends at its junction with the Twinway, continue a short distance further to reach attractive Zealand Falls, which is best visited at times of high water.
While Zealand Trail ends 2.5 miles from the trailhead, the turnaround point for this hike will be 0.2 miles further along the Twinway at AMC Zealand Falls Hut.
